The article deals with the indications, practical realization and complications of awake craniotomy. Awake craniotomy is currently a frequently used method in the surgery of diffuse low-grade gliomas of the brain. It allows to monitor the patient's motor, speech, verbal and non-verbal semantics, emotionality and, to some extent, executive functions during the procedure. The indications of the method, practical implementation, complications and the postoperative rehabilitation are discussed. The close relationship between awake craniotomy and possible postoperative oncological treatment is also mentioned.